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{{SubTabs
|sub1 = Event decks
|sub2 = Intro packs
}}
{{Infobox set
{{Infobox set
   |image = DKA logo.jpg
   |image = DKA logo.jpg
Line 7: Line 11:
   |release = February 3, 2012
   |release = February 3, 2012
   |plane = [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]]
   |plane = [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]]
   |mechanics = [[Double-faced cards]],<BR>[[Curse]],<BR>[[Graveyard]] matters,<BR>[[Tribal]],<BR>[[Human]]s sacrifice
   |mechanics = [[Double-faced card]]s, [[Curse]]d, [[Graveyard]] matters, [[Tribal]], [[Human]] sacrifice
   |keywords = ''[[Fateful hour]]'',<BR>[[Flashback]],<BR>''[[Morbid]]'',<BR>[[Transform]],<BR>[[Undying]]
   |keywords = ''[[Fateful hour]]'', [[Flashback]], ''[[Morbid]]'', [[Transform]], [[Undying]]
   |size = 158<BR><small>(64 commons, 44 uncommons, 38 rares, 12 mythic rares)</small>
   |size = 158<BR><small>(64 commons, 44 uncommons, 38 rares, 12 mythic rares)</small>
   |code_expansion = DKA
   |code_expansion = DKA
   |code_expansion_ref = <ref>[http://magic.wizards.com/en/game-info/products/card-set-archive/dark-ascension Product info]</ref>
   |code_expansion_ref = [http://magic.wizards.com/en/game-info/products/card-set-archive/dark-ascension Product info]
   |code_development = Rattle
   |code_development = Rattle
   |series = [[Innistrad block]]
   |series = [[Innistrad block]]
   |first = [[Innistrad]]
   |first = Innistrad
   |second = '''Dark Ascension'''
   |second = Dark Ascension
   |third = [[Avacyn Restored]]
   |third = Avacyn Restored
   |previous = [[Premium Deck Series: Graveborn]]
   |previous = Premium Deck Series: Graveborn
   |next = [[Duel Decks: Venser vs. Koth]]
   |next = Duel Decks: Venser vs. Koth
}}
}}
'''''Dark Ascension''''' is the second set in the [[Innistrad block]]. It is the 57th ''Magic'' expansion and was released on February 3, 2012.<ref name="Announcing">{{NewRef|announcing-dark-ascension-2011-07-25|Announcing ''Dark Ascension''|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|July 25, 2011}}</ref>
'''''Dark Ascension''''' is the second set in the [[Innistrad block]]. It is the 57th ''Magic'' expansion and was released on February 3, 2012.<ref name="Announcing">{{DailyRef|announcing-dark-ascension-2011-07-25|Announcing ''Dark Ascension''|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|July 25, 2011}}</ref>


==Set details==
==Set details==
''Dark Ascension'', like its predecessor, is [[top-down]] designed with a horror theme.<ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/hooked-feeling-2012-01-19|Hooked on a Feeling|[[Zac Hill]]|January 20, 2012}}</ref> The set contains 158 cards (64 Common, 44 Uncommon, 38 Rare, 12 Mythic) and includes randomly inserted [[premium]] versions of all cards in the set. The set puts a stronger emphasis on [[tribal]] creature types, such as providing a [[lord]] for each of the main types ([[vampire]]s, [[ghost]]s, [[werewolves]], [[zombie]]s and [[human]]s).<ref>{{NewRef|feature/dancing-dark-ascension-part-1-2012-01-09|Dancing in the ''Dark Ascension'', Part 1|[[Mark Rosewater]]|January 09, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|feature/dancing-dark-ascension-part-2-2012-01-16|Dancing in the ''Dark Ascension'', Part 2|[[Mark Rosewater]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref> All the major mechanics of the previous set, including [[Double-faced cards]], return. New mechanics are [[Fateful Hour]] and [[Undying]].The [[expansion symbol]] of the set is the Innistrad symbol "turned inward", which represents humanity hunkering down.<ref>[http://community.wizards.com/content/forum-topic/3394701?page=2 Ask Brady] (dead link)</ref>
''Dark Ascension'', like its predecessor, is [[top-down]] designed with a horror theme.<ref>{{DailyRef|latest-developments/hooked-feeling-2012-01-19|Hooked on a Feeling|[[Zac Hill]]|January 20, 2012}}</ref> The set contains 158 cards (64 Common, 44 Uncommon, 38 Rare, 12 Mythic) and includes randomly inserted [[premium]] versions of all cards in the set. The set puts a stronger emphasis on [[tribal]] creature types, such as providing a [[lord]] for each of the main types ([[vampire]]s, [[ghost]]s, [[werewolves]], [[zombie]]s and [[human]]s).<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/dancing-dark-ascension-part-1-2012-01-09|Dancing in the ''Dark Ascension'', Part 1|[[Mark Rosewater]]|January 09, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|feature/dancing-dark-ascension-part-2-2012-01-16|Dancing in the ''Dark Ascension'', Part 2|[[Mark Rosewater]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref> All the major mechanics of the previous set, including [[double-faced card]]s, return. New mechanics are [[Fateful Hour]] and [[Undying]]. The [[expansion symbol]] of the set is the Innistrad symbol "turned inward", which represents humanity hunkering down.<ref>[http://community.wizards.com/content/forum-topic/3394701?page=2 Ask Brady] (dead link)</ref>


===Flavor and storyline===
===Flavor and storyline===
{{cquote|Command the Night}}
{{cquote|Command the Night}}
[[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] has been overrun by creatures of the night. While the forces of good struggle to hold back the threat, villagers cower behind walls and pray for the morning light. The [[human]]s are on the verge of extinction and have to take desperate measures to stem the tide.<ref>{{NewRef|feature/these-desperate-times-backstory-update-dark-ascension-2012-01-02|In These Desperate Times: A Backstory Update for ''Dark Ascension''|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 02, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|feature/preview-article-mikaeus-unhallowed-2012-01-16|Preview Article: Mikaeus, the Unhallowed|[[Jenna Helland]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-art-gallery-2012-01-04|''Dark Ascension'' Art Gallery|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 04, 2012}}</ref> It is revealed that [[Avacyn]], the guardian angel created by [[Sorin]] is locked in the [[Helvault]].<ref>{{NewRef|feature/world-dark-ascension-2012-01-11|The World of ''Dark Ascension''|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|January, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|savor-flavor/sorins-homecoming-2012-01-09|Sorin's Homecoming|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|savor-flavor/prison-silver-2012-01-17|The Prison of Silver|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 18, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|savor-flavor/state-faith-2012-01-24|The State of the Faith|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 25, 2012}}</ref>
[[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] has been overrun by creatures of the night. While the forces of good struggle to hold back the threat, villagers cower behind walls and pray for the morning light. The [[human]]s are on the verge of extinction and have to take desperate measures to stem the tide.<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/these-desperate-times-backstory-update-dark-ascension-2012-01-02|In These Desperate Times: A Backstory Update for ''Dark Ascension''|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 02, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|feature/preview-article-mikaeus-unhallowed-2012-01-16|Preview Article: Mikaeus, the Unhallowed|[[Jenna Helland]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-art-gallery-2012-01-04|''Dark Ascension'' Art Gallery|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 04, 2012}}</ref> It is revealed that [[Avacyn]], the guardian angel created by [[Sorin]] is locked in the [[Helvault]].<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/world-dark-ascension-2012-01-11|The World of ''Dark Ascension''|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|January, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/sorins-homecoming-2012-01-09|Sorin's Homecoming|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 11, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/prison-silver-2012-01-17|The Prison of Silver|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 18, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|savor-flavor/state-faith-2012-01-24|The State of the Faith|[[Doug Beyer]]|January 25, 2012}}</ref>
 
====Magic Story====
{{main|Magic Story}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Title !! Author !! Release Date !! Setting (plane) !! Featuring
|-
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20160418105923/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/feature/preview-article-mikaeus-unhallowed-2012-01-16 Mikaeus, the Unhallowed] || [[Jenna Helland]] || 2011-10-26 || [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] || [[Mikaeus Cecani]], [[Geralf Cecani]], [[Gisa Cecani]], [[Grimgrin]], [[Alwin]], [[Traken]], [[Avacyn]], [[Lothar]], [[Thalia]], [[Liliana Vess|"Lili"]]
|}
 
====Savor the Flavor====
{{main|Savor the Flavor}}
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Title !! Author !! Release Date !! Setting (plane) !! Featuring
|-
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20160310002521/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/backstory-update-dark-ascension-2012-01-03 A Backstory Update for Dark Ascension] || [[Doug Beyer]] || 2012-01-04 || [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] || [[Avacyn]], [[Liliana]], [[Griselbrand]], [[Garruk]]
|-
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20150221075409/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/sorins-homecoming-2012-01-09 Sorin's Homecoming] || [[Doug Beyer]] || 2012-01-11 || [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] || [[Sorin Markov|Sorin]], [[Edgar Markov]], [[Shilgengar]], [[Avacyn]]
|-
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20160310011341/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/prison-silver-2012-01-17 The Prison of Silver] || [[Doug Beyer]] || 2012-01-18 || [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] || [[Edgar Markov]], [[Shilgengar]], [[Sorin Markov|Sorin]], [[Avacyn]], [[Griselbrand]], [[Mikaeus Cecani]], [[Liliana Vess|Liliana]]
|-
| [https://web.archive.org/web/20160310011210/http://magic.wizards.com/en/articles/archive/savor-flavor/state-faith-2012-01-24 The State of the Faith] || [[Doug Beyer]] || 2012-01-25 || [[Innistrad (plane)|Innistrad]] || [[Avacyn]], [[Griselbrand]], [[Mikaeus Cecani]], [[Volpaig]]
|}


===Marketing===
===Marketing===
[[File:DKA 6 card booster.jpg|thumb|right|''Dark Ascension'' 6-card booster]]
[[File:DKA 6 card booster.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Dark Ascension'' 6-card booster]]
''Dark Ascension'' was sold in 16-card [[booster]]s, 6-card boosters, five [[intro pack]]s, two [[event deck]]s  and a [[fat pack]].<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-fat-pack-2012-01-16|''Dark Ascension'' Fat Pack|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref> The 16-card boosters featured artwork from  <c>Havengul Lich</c>, <c>Sorin, Lord of Innistrad</c> and <c>Werewolf Ransacker</c>.<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-booster-packs-2012-01-10|''Dark Ascension'' Booster Packs|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 10, 2012}}</ref> The small booster featured artwork from <c>Beguiler of Wills</c>.
''Dark Ascension'' was sold in 16-card [[booster]]s, 6-card boosters, five [[intro pack]]s, two [[event deck]]s  and a [[fat pack]].<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-fat-pack-2012-01-16|''Dark Ascension'' Fat Pack|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 16, 2012}}</ref> The 16-card boosters featured artwork from  <c>Havengul Lich</c>, <c>Sorin, Lord of Innistrad</c> and <c>Werewolf Ransacker</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-booster-packs-2012-01-10|''Dark Ascension'' Booster Packs|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 10, 2012}}</ref> The small booster featured artwork from <c>Beguiler of Wills</c>.


The [[prerelease]] was January 28–29, 2012, the [[launch party]] on February 3–6, 2012, the [[Magic Online]] release on February 20, 2012.<ref>{{NewRef|feature/magic-online-dark-ascension-release-events-2012-02-07|Magic Online ''Dark Ascension'' Release Events|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|February 7, 2012}}</ref> The [[Game Day]] was held on February 25–26, 2012.
The [[prerelease]] was January 28–29, 2012, the [[launch party]] on February 3–6, 2012, the [[Magic Online]] release on February 20, 2012.<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/magic-online-dark-ascension-release-events-2012-02-07|Magic Online ''Dark Ascension'' Release Events|[[Wizards of the Coast]]|February 7, 2012}}</ref> The [[Game Day]] was held on February 25–26, 2012.


At each prerelease, some number of people were designated by some flashy stickers as a [[vampire]], [[werewolf]], [[zombie]], or [[spirit]] at the start of the event. Any time a [[monster]] defeated a [[human]] in a match, the monster would convert the human to his or her cause. At the end of each Prerelease, the remaining humans and the largest tribe or tribles of monsters would be declared winners, but the rewards were up to the organizers.<ref>{{NewRef|dark-ascension-prerelease-primer-2012-01-23|''Dark Ascension'' Prerelease Primer|Tim Willoughby|January 23, 2012}}</ref> The [[prerelease card]]s was the double faced <c>Ravenous Demon</c> / Archdemon of Greed.<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-promo-cards-2012-01-09-0|''Dark Ascension'' Promo Cards|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 9, 2012}}</ref>  The [[Release card]] was <c>Mondronen Shaman</c> / Tovolar's Magehunter.<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/alternate-launch-party-art-2012-02-02|Alternate Launch Party Art|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 2, 2012}}</ref> The promotional card at the [[Game Day]] event was a full-art <c>Strangleroot Geist</c>, while a full-art [[foil]] <c>Zombie Apocalypse</c> was given to the top-8 participants. The [[Booster box promo card|Buy-a-Box]] was <c>Gravecrawler</c>.
At each prerelease, some number of people were designated by some flashy stickers as a [[vampire]], [[werewolf]], [[zombie]], or [[spirit]] at the start of the event. Any time a [[monster]] defeated a [[human]] in a match, the monster would convert the human to their cause. At the end of each Prerelease, the remaining humans and the largest tribe or tribes of monsters would be declared winners, but the rewards were up to the organizers.<ref>{{DailyRef|dark-ascension-prerelease-primer-2012-01-23|''Dark Ascension'' Prerelease Primer|Tim Willoughby|January 23, 2012}}</ref> The [[prerelease card]]s was the double faced <c>Ravenous Demon</c> / <c>Archdemon of Greed</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-promo-cards-2012-01-09-0|''Dark Ascension'' Promo Cards|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 9, 2012}}</ref>  The [[Release card]] was <c>Mondronen Shaman</c> / <c>Tovolar's Magehunter</c>.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/alternate-launch-party-art-2012-02-02|Alternate Launch Party Art|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 2, 2012}}</ref> The promotional card at the [[Game Day]] event was a full-art <c>Strangleroot Geist</c>, while a full-art [[foil]] <c>Zombie Apocalypse</c> was given to the top-8 participants. The [[Buy-a-Box]] was <c>Gravecrawler</c>.
 
Regular boosters of ''Dark Ascension'' come with a bonus sixteenth card that is either a ''Dark Ascension'' [[checklist card]], a creature [[token]], an [[emblem]], or a [[rules card]] with an advertisement on the reverse side.


Regular boosters of ''Dark Ascension'' come with a bonus sixteenth card that is either a ''Dark Ascension'' [[checklist card]], a creature [[token]], an [[emblem]] or a [[rules card]] with an advertisement on the reverse side.
[[File:DKA Checklist.jpg|thumb|right|''Dark Ascension'' checklist card]]
====Tokens and emblem====
====Tokens and emblem====
The new ''Dark Ascension'' [[token]]s and [[emblem]] are:<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-tokens-2012-01-18|''Dark Ascension'' Tokens|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 18, 2012}}</ref>
[[File:DKA Checklist.jpg|thumb|right|250px|''Dark Ascension'' [[checklist card]]]]
The new ''Dark Ascension'' [[token]]s and [[emblem]] are:<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-tokens-2012-01-18|''Dark Ascension'' Tokens|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 18, 2012}}</ref>
# {{W}} 1/1 [[Human]] produced by <c>Gather the Townsfolk</c>, <c>Increasing Devotion</c>, and <c>Thraben Doomsayer</c>
# {{W}} 1/1 [[Human]] produced by <c>Gather the Townsfolk</c>, <c>Increasing Devotion</c>, and <c>Thraben Doomsayer</c>
# {{B}} 1/1 [[Vampire]] with [[lifelink]] produced by <c>Sorin, Lord of Innistrad</c>
# {{B}} 1/1 [[Vampire]] with [[lifelink]] produced by <c>Sorin, Lord of Innistrad</c>
# <c>Sorin, Lord of Innistrad</c> emblem with "Creatures you control get +1/+0."
# {{Emblem|Sorin, Lord of Innistrad|DKA}}


==Themes and mechanics==
==Themes and mechanics==
The set introduces a new [[Keyword|keyword mechanic]] in [[Undying]]. It functions very similar to [[Persist]], but instead of [[Counter (marker)/List of Counters#-1/-1 counter|-1/-1 counters]], it adds a [[Counter (marker)/List of Counters#+1/+1 counter|+1/+1 counter]] to the creature when it returns from the grave.<ref>{{NewRef|feature/dark-ascension-mechanics-2012-01-09-0|''Dark Ascension'' Mechanics|Magicthegathering.com Staff|January 09, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/undie-another-day-2012-02-24|(Un)Die Another Day|[[Zac Hill]]|February 24, 2012}}</ref>
The set introduces a new [[keyword]] mechanic in [[Undying]]. It functions very similar to [[Persist]], but instead of a [[-1/-1 counter]], it adds a [[+1/+1 counter]] to the creature when it returns from the grave.<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/dark-ascension-mechanics-2012-01-09-0|''Dark Ascension'' Mechanics|Magicthegathering.com Staff|January 09, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|latest-developments/undie-another-day-2012-02-24|(Un)Die Another Day|[[Zac Hill]]|February 24, 2012}}</ref>


[[Fateful hour]] is a new [[ability word]], which creates an ability that functions if the controller of the effect is at 5 life or less.<ref>{{NewRef|feature/first-impressions-2012-01-30|First Impressions|[[Dave Humpherys]]|January 30, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/fateful-desperation-2012-03-09|Fateful Desperation|[[Zac Hill]]|March 09, 2012}}</ref>
[[Fateful hour]] is a new [[ability word]], which creates an ability that functions if the controller of the effect is at 5 life or less.<ref>{{DailyRef|feature/first-impressions-2012-01-30|First Impressions|[[Dave Humpherys]]|January 30, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|latest-developments/fateful-desperation-2012-03-09|Fateful Desperation|[[Zac Hill]]|March 09, 2012}}</ref>


[[Double-faced cards]] return with this set, further showcasing the transformation mechanic. As for ''Innistrad'' a special [[Checklist card]] is provided to facilitate play with the double-face cards.<ref>{{NewRef|latest-developments/transformation-transformed-2012-01-13|Transformation Transformed|[[Tom LaPille]]|January 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{NewRef|arcana/same-place-different-side-2012-02-16|Same Place, Different Side|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 16, 2012}}</ref> [[Flashback]], [[Morbid]], and [[Curse]]s also return.
[[Double-faced card]]s return with this set, further showcasing the transformation mechanic. As for ''Innistrad'' a special [[Checklist card]] is provided to facilitate play with the double-face cards.<ref>{{DailyRef|latest-developments/transformation-transformed-2012-01-13|Transformation Transformed|[[Tom LaPille]]|January 13, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/same-place-different-side-2012-02-16|Same Place, Different Side|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 16, 2012}}</ref> [[Flashback]], [[Morbid]], and [[Curse]]s also return.


===Creature types===
===Creature types===
Line 56: Line 85:


==Cycles==
==Cycles==
''Dark Ascension'' breaks the mold for [[cycle]]s to a certain extent, as some of the cycles only contain four cards. In cycles which emphasize an allied color-pair, the green-white part of the cycle is missing. This is likely due to the higher emphasis on monster tribes, as the white/green pair is tied to humans.  
''Dark Ascension'' breaks the mold for [[cycle]]s to a certain extent, as some of the cycles only contain four cards. In cycles that emphasize an allied color pair, the green-white part of the cycle is missing. This is likely due to the higher emphasis on monster tribes, as the white/green pair is tied to humans.  


''Dark Ascension'' has six cycles:
Three [[flashback]] cycles:
*'''Increasing Flashback Spells''': Five [[rare]] spells with [[Flashback]], which double their effect if they are flashed back {{-}} <c>Increasing Devotion</c>, <c>Increasing Confusion</c>, <c>Increasing Ambition</c>, <c>Increasing Vengeance</c>, and <c>Increasing Savagery</c>.
{| class="wikitable"
*'''Mythic Rare Tribal Creatures''': Four [[mythic rare]] creatures that are of an allied pair associated with one of four monster tribes associated with Innistrad {{-}} <c>Drogskol Reaver</c>, <c>Falkenrath Aristocrat</c>, <c>Havengul Lich</c>, and <c>Huntmaster of the Fells</c>.
! Cycle name
*'''Ally [[Flashback]] cards''': Each of these common spells has a flashback cost involving its counter-clockwise ally on the color wheel. This cycle mirrors the ally cycle from ''Innistrad'', which had flashback costs in the color's clockwise ally on the color wheel. {{-}} <c>Ray of Revelation</c>, <c>Saving Grasp</c>, <c>Reap the Seagraf</c>, <c>Fires of Undeath</c>, and <c>Wild Hunger</c>.
! {{W}}
*'''Enemy [[Flashback]] cards''': Each of these uncommon spells has a flashback cost involving the enemy color two slots later on the color wheel. They are the reverse of a cycle from ''Innistrad'', as the colors of the flashback cost and the regular casting cost are flipped. {{-}} <c>Lingering Souls</c>, <c>Mystic Retrieval</c>, <c>Deadly Allure</c>, <c>Burning Oil</c>, and <c>Tracker's Instincts</c>.
! {{U}}
*'''Tribal Lords''': A cycle of uncommon cards that are allied-colored lords tied to one of the monster tribes on Innistrad. They all provide some form of benefit in addition to the standard lord effect. Immerwolf is the only one which is not named Captain. {{-}} <c>Drogskol Captain</c>, <c>Diregraf Captain</c>, <c>Stromkirk Captain</c>, and <c>Immerwolf</c>.
! {{B}}
*'''Enemy Utility lands''': Like ''Innistrad'', ''Dark Ascension'' and ''Avacyn Restored'' contain (between them) a cycle of colorless lands that can be tapped for {{C}} and have an additional tap ability requiring two specific colors of mana to activate. In this cycle, the colors are of enemy pairs. {{-}} <c>Vault of the Archangel</c> and <c>Grim Backwoods</c>
! {{R}}
! {{G}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|'''Increasing flashback cards'''
|{{card|Increasing Devotion||DKA}}
|{{card|Increasing Confusion||DKA}}
|{{card|Increasing Ambition||DKA}}
|{{card|Increasing Vengeance||DKA}}
|{{card|Increasing Savagery||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|Five [[rare]] spells with [[Flashback]], which double their effect if they are flashed back  
|-
|rowspan="2"|'''Allied flashback cards'''
|{{card|Ray of Revelation||DKA}}
|{{card|Saving Grasp||DKA}}
|{{card|Reap the Seagraf||DKA}}
|{{card|Fires of Undeath||DKA}}
|{{card|Wild Hunger||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|Each of these common spells has a flashback cost involving its counter-clockwise ally on the color wheel. This cycle mirrors the ally cycle from ''Innistrad'', which had flashback costs in the color's clockwise ally on the color wheel.
|-
|rowspan="2"|'''Enemy flashback cards'''
|{{card|Lingering Souls||DKA}}
|{{card|Mystic Retrieval||DKA}}
|{{card|Deadly Allure||DKA}}
|{{card|Burning Oil||DKA}}
|{{card|Tracker's Instincts||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|Each of these uncommon spells has a flashback cost involving the enemy color two slots later on the color wheel. They are the reverse of a cycle from ''Innistrad'', as the colors of the flashback cost and the regular casting cost are flipped.
|}
 
Two monster tribal cycles:
{| class="wikitable"
! Cycle name
! {{W}}{{U}}<br/>[[Spirit]]
! {{U}}{{B}}<br/>[[Zombie]]
! {{B}}{{R}}<br/>[[Vampire]]
! {{R}}{{G}}<br/>[[Werewolf]]
|-
|rowspan="2"|'''Mythic Rare'''
|{{card|Drogskol Reaver||DKA}}
|{{card|Havengul Lich||DKA}}
|{{card|Falkenrath Aristocrat||DKA}}
|{{card|Huntmaster of the Fells||DKA}} // {{card|Ravager of the Fells||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|Four [[mythic rare]] creatures that are of an allied pair associated with one of four monster tribes associated with Innistrad.
|-
|rowspan="2"|'''Lords'''
|{{card|Drogskol Captain||DKA}}
|{{card|Diregraf Captain||DKA}}
|{{card|Stromkirk Captain||DKA}}
|{{card|Immerwolf||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|A cycle of uncommon cards that are allied-colored lords tied to one of the monster tribes on Innistrad. They all provide some form of benefit in addition to the standard lord effect. Immerwolf is the only one who is not named Captain.
|}
 
===Mega cycle===
{{Main|Innistrad block#Mega cycle}}
 
===Vertical cycle===
{| class="wikitable"
! width="11%"| Cycle name
! width="29%"| {{keyrune|DKA|rarity=m|grad=1}}
! width="30%"| {{keyrune|DKA|rarity=u|grad=1}}
! width="30%"| {{keyrune|DKA}}
|-
|rowspan="2" |'''Red Riding Hood Werewolves'''
|{{card|Huntmaster of the Fells||DKA}} // {{card|Ravager of the Fells||DKA}}
|{{card|Lambholt Elder||DKA}} // {{card|Silverpelt Werewolf||DKA}}
|{{card|Scorned Villager||DKA}} // {{card|Moonscarred Werewolf||DKA}}
|-
|colspan="5"|A cycle taking inspiration from the classic fairy tale "Little Red Riding Hood", but where all the characters are also the Big Bad Wolf - the little girl, the grandmother, and the hunter that saved them.
|}


==Reprinted cards==
==Reprinted cards==
* <c>Divination</c>, first printed in ''[[Magic 2010]]'', last seen in ''[[Magic 2012]]''
*<c>Divination</c>, first printed in ''[[Magic 2010]]'', last seen in ''[[Magic 2012]]''
* <c>Evolving Wilds</c>, first printed in ''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]''
*<c>Evolving Wilds</c>, first printed in ''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]''
* <c>Fling</c>, first printed in ''[[Stronghold]]'', last seen in ''Magic 2012''
*<c>Fling</c>, first printed in ''[[Stronghold]]'', last seen in ''Magic 2012''
* <c>Ray of Revelation</c>, first printed in ''[[Judgment]]''
*<c>Ray of Revelation</c>, first printed in ''[[Judgment]]''


===Functional reprints===
===Functional reprints===
* <c>Gravepurge</c>, functional reprint of <c>Footbottom Feast</c> (''[[Lorwyn]]'')
*<c>Gravepurge</c>, functional reprint of <c>Footbottom Feast</c> (''[[Lorwyn]]'')
* <c>Griptide</c>, functional reprint of <c>Repel</c> (''[[Odyssey]]'')
*<c>Griptide</c>, functional reprint of <c>Repel</c> (''[[Odyssey]]'')
* <c>Hollowhenge Beast</c>, functional reprint of <c>Silverback Ape</c> (''[[Starter 1999]]''), save for creature type
*<c>Hollowhenge Beast</c>, functional reprint of <c>Silverback Ape</c> (''[[Starter 1999]]''), save for creature type
* <c>Nephalia Seakite</c>, functional reprint of <c>Sentinels of Glen Elendra</c> (''Lorwyn''), save for creature type
*<c>Nephalia Seakite</c>, functional reprint of <c>Sentinels of Glen Elendra</c> (''Lorwyn''), save for creature type
* <c>Russet Wolves</c>, functional reprint of <c>Lagac Lizard</c> (''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]''), <c>Canyon Minotaur</c> (''[[Conflux]]''), <c>Hill Giant</c> (''[[Limited Edition]]''), <c>Wild Jhovall</c> (''[[Mercadian Masques]]''), <c>Tor Giant</c> (''[[Ice Age]]''), <c>Ogre Warrior</c> (''[[Portal Second Age]]''), and <c>Barbarian Horde</c> (''[[Portal Three Kingdoms]]'') save for creature type
*<c>Russet Wolves</c>, functional reprint of <c>Lagac Lizard</c> (''[[Rise of the Eldrazi]]''), <c>Canyon Minotaur</c> (''[[Conflux]]''), <c>Hill Giant</c> (''[[Limited Edition]]''), <c>Wild Jhovall</c> (''[[Mercadian Masques]]''), <c>Tor Giant</c> (''[[Ice Age]]''), <c>Ogre Warrior</c> (''[[Portal Second Age]]''), and <c>Barbarian Horde</c> (''[[Portal Three Kingdoms]]'') save for creature type
* <c>Sanctuary Cat</c>, functional reprint of <c>Devoted Hero</c> (''[[Portal]]'') and <c>Volunteer Militia</c> (''[[Portal Three Kingdoms]]'') save for creature type
*<c>Sanctuary Cat</c>, functional reprint of <c>Devoted Hero</c> (''[[Portal]]'') and <c>Volunteer Militia</c> (''[[Portal Three Kingdoms]]'') save for creature type


===Strictly better===
===Strictly better===
* <c>Hunger of the Howlpack</c>, upgrade from <c>Battlegrowth</c> (''[[Mirrodin]]'')
*<c>Hunger of the Howlpack</c>, upgrade from <c>Battlegrowth</c> (''[[Mirrodin]]'')
* <c>Midnight Guard</c>, upgrade from <c>Shu Foot Soldiers</c> (''Portal Three Kingdoms'') and <c>Alaborn Trooper</c> (''Portal Second Age'')
*<c>Midnight Guard</c>, upgrade from <c>Shu Foot Soldiers</c> (''Portal Three Kingdoms'') and <c>Alaborn Trooper</c> (''Portal Second Age'')
* <c>Somberwald Dryad</c>, upgrade from <c>Rushwood Dryad</c> (''Mercadian Masques'') and <c>Grizzly Bears</c> (Alpha)
*<c>Somberwald Dryad</c>, upgrade from <c>Rushwood Dryad</c> (''Mercadian Masques'') and <c>Grizzly Bears</c> (Alpha)
* <c>Thought Scour</c>, upgrade from <c>Ray of Erasure</c> (''Ice Age'') and <c>Mental Note</c> (''Judgment'')
*<c>Thought Scour</c>, upgrade from <c>Ray of Erasure</c> (''Ice Age'') and <c>Mental Note</c> (''Judgment'')


==Notable cards==
==Notable cards==
*<c>Gravecrawler</c> and <c>Geralf's Messenger</c> formed the backbone of Zombie decks in [[Standard]], as both are hard to kill and can push a lot of damage through in early turns. Geralf's Messenger in particular is a conceptual mirrored version of <c>Kitchen Finks</c> which was a popular aggro card during Lorwyn-Shadowmoor block; providing life loss against life gain, [[Undying|getting stronger upon death]] as [[Persist|opposed to weaker]] and being extremely inflexible in casting as opposed to being [[Hybrid mana|fairly easy to cast]].
*<c>Archangel's Light</c> is a notoriously weak card, particularly for a mythic rare.
*<c>Grafdigger's Cage</c> {{-}} A powerful hoser card against strategies that attempt to cheat cards into play. This card incited widespread skepticism and anger, but turned out to not be as threatening as expected. It nevertheless became a staple in the eternal formats, especially out of the sideboard.
*<c>Gravecrawler</c> and <c>Geralf's Messenger</c> formed the backbone of Zombie decks in [[Standard]], as both are hard to kill and can push a lot of damage through in early turns. Geralf's Messenger, in particular, is a conceptual mirrored version of <c>Kitchen Finks</c> which was a popular aggro card during Lorwyn-Shadowmoor block; providing life loss against life gain, [[Undying|getting stronger upon death]] as [[Persist|opposed to weaker]] and being extremely inflexible in casting as opposed to being [[Hybrid mana|fairly easy to cast]].
*<c>Lingering Souls</c> saw widespread application in a nearly all formats and was banned in [[Block Constructed]] due to providing a large number of creatures with the cost spread over multiple turns.
*<c>Grafdigger's Cage</c> is a powerful hoser card against strategies that attempt to cheat cards into play. This card incited widespread skepticism and anger but turned out to not be as threatening as expected. It nevertheless became a staple in the eternal formats, especially out of the sideboard.
*<c>Huntmaster of the Fells</c> {{-}} Providing two bodies in one card, as well as lifegain and potential damage output, this card saw much tournament attention.
*<c>Huntmaster of the Fells</c> provided two bodies in one card, as well as lifegain and potential damage output, resulting in seeing heavy play in Standard.
*<c>Elbrus, the Binding Blade</c> is a very flavorful artifact, depicting an expensive but weak dagger, which transforms into the gigantic and nigh-unstoppable [[Demon]] <c title="Withengar">Withengar Unbound</c> who feasts on the souls of defeated opponents.
*<c>Elbrus, the Binding Blade</c> is a very flavorful artifact, depicting an expensive but weak dagger, which transforms into the gigantic and nigh-unstoppable [[Demon]] <c title="Withengar">Withengar Unbound</c> who feasts on the souls of defeated opponents.
*<c>Tragic Slip</c> is considered by many to be one of the best spot creature removal cards in the game, due to its ability to destroy almost any creature for one mana, provided that another creature already died that turn.
*<c>Tragic Slip</c> was once one of the best spot creature removal cards in the game, due to its ability to destroy almost any creature for one mana, provided that another creature already died that turn.
*<c>Faithless Looting</c> showed the shift toward "looting" (a la <c>Merfolk Looter</c>) abilities in Red, but with the distinction that would be demonstrated in later sets that discarding would occur as a cost to differentiate it to the Blue version of looting. Its position as a Red mechanic would later be solidified in Magic 2013.
*<c>Thalia, Guardian of Thraben</c> is a staple in [[Death and Taxes]] in both [[Legacy]] and [[Modern]] and has seen play on both of its times through Standard.
*<c>Thalia, Guardian of Thraben</c> is a staple in [[Death and Taxes]] in both [[Legacy]] and [[Modern]].
*<c>Mikaeus, the Unhallowed</c> is well known in casual Commander for having an infinite combo loop with numerous creatures, most commonly <c>Triskelion</c>.
*<c>Though Scour</c> has seen substantial play in both Modern and Pauper decks that combine control style spells with aggressive finishers that benefit from a filled graveyard, as well as Modern decks focused on aggressively milling the opponent.
*<c>Young Wolf</c> did not see much success in Standard but has proven powerful in both Pauper, where it is a key part of multiple aggro decks, and Bogles style decks, and in Modern, where it is one of the main combo pieces in decks built around <c>Yawgmoth, Thran Physician</c>.
*<c>Strangleroot Geist</c> was a key part of standard aggro decks with an efficient and hasty body and resilience to removal, and continues to see play in decks similar to Young Wolf in Modern such as Yawgmoth and Chord Toolbox.
===Banned and restricted cards===
*<c>Faithless Looting</c> showed the shift toward "looting" (a la <c>Merfolk Looter</c>) abilities in Red, although later sets shifted towards having the discard happen before drawing. Regardless, the card proved to be exceptionally powerful for any deck that cares about the graveyard, providing both great card selection and cheap access to repeatable discard. It even works great in multiples, which could also be discarded but still provide value through flashback. After many years of enabling graveyard strategies, it was banned in Modern in the wake of <c>Hogaak, Arisen Necropolis</c> decks plaguing the format for months.
*<c>Lingering Souls</c> saw widespread application in nearly all formats and was banned in [[Block Constructed]] due to providing a large number of creatures with the cost spread over multiple turns. It remained a powerhouse in Modern for many years, although it has fallen out of favor as more powerful creatures have been printed.


== Preconstructed decks ==
==Trivia==
*The art of <c>Undying Evil</c> references a famous scene from Sam Raimi's 1981 film ''[[Wikipedia:The Evil Dead|The Evil Dead]]''.<ref>{{WebRef|url=https://www.cbr.com/magic-the-gathering-best-pop-culture-references-mtg/|title=10 Best Pop Culture References In ''Magic: The Gathering''|author=Sean Migalla|date=October 24, 2022|publisher=CBR.com}}</ref>


=== Intro packs ===
==Preconstructed decks==
===Intro packs===
{{Main|Dark Ascension/Intro packs}}
{{Main|Dark Ascension/Intro packs}}
 
''Dark Ascension'' features five [[intro pack]]s.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-intro-packs-2012-01-12|''Dark Ascension'' Intro Packs|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 12, 2012}}</ref>
''Dark Ascension'' features five [[intro pack]]s.<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-intro-packs-2012-01-12|''Dark Ascension'' Intro Packs|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 12, 2012}}</ref>


{{Decks|intro
{{Decks|intro
  |Swift Justice|RW|Requiem Angel
   |Relentless Dead|UB|Havengul Runebinder
   |Relentless Dead|UB|Havengul Runebinder
   |Monstrous Surprise|RG|Flayer of the Hatebound
   |Monstrous Surprise|RG|Flayer of the Hatebound
  |Dark Sacrifice|WB|Fiend of the Shadows
  |Swift Justice|RW|Requiem Angel
   |Grave Power|GU|Ghoultree
   |Grave Power|GU|Ghoultree
  |Dark Sacrifice|WB|Fiend of the Shadows
}}
}}


=== Event decks ===
===Event decks===
{{Main|Dark Ascension/Event decks}}
{{Main|Dark Ascension/Event decks}}
 
''Dark Ascension'' features two [[event deck]]s.<ref>{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-event-decks-2012-02-01|''Dark Ascension'' Event Decks|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 01, 2012}}</ref>
''Dark Ascension'' features two [[event deck]]s.<ref>{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-event-decks-2012-02-01|''Dark Ascension'' Event Decks|[[Monty Ashley]]|February 01, 2012}}</ref>


{{Decks|event
{{Decks|event
Line 126: Line 234:
==External links==
==External links==
*{{Prodpage|dark-ascension|Dark Ascension}}
*{{Prodpage|dark-ascension|Dark Ascension}}
*{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-ultrapro-2011-12-08|''Dark Ascension'' on UltraPro|[[Monty Ashley]]|December 08, 2011}}
*{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-ultrapro-2011-12-08|''Dark Ascension'' on UltraPro|[[Monty Ashley]]|December 08, 2011}}
*{{NewRef|arcana/dark-ascension-trailer-2012-01-11|''Dark Ascension'' Trailer|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 11, 2012}}
*{{DailyRef|arcana/dark-ascension-trailer-2012-01-11|''Dark Ascension'' Trailer|[[Monty Ashley]]|January 11, 2012}}
*{{DailyRef|making-magic/lessons-learned-part-3|Lessons Learned, Part 3|[[Mark Rosewater]]|May 22, 2023}}  


{{Sets|state=collapsed}}
{{Innistrad|block}}
{{Innistrad|block}}
{{Sets}}

Latest revision as of 00:02, 21 June 2024

Dark Ascension
 
Event decks
 
Intro packs
 
Dark Ascension
[[File:{{#setmainimage:DKA logo.jpg}}|250px]]
Set Information
Set symbol
Symbol description Innistrad symbol turned inward
Design Mark Rosewater (lead),
Jenna Helland,
Zac Hill,
Graeme Hopkins,
Matt Tabak
Development Tom LaPille (lead),
Mark L. Gottlieb,
Zac Hill,
David Humpherys,
Ken Troop
Art direction Jeremy Jarvis
Release date February 3, 2012
Plane Innistrad
Themes and mechanics Double-faced cards, Cursed, Graveyard matters, Tribal, Human sacrifice
Keywords/​ability words Fateful hour, Flashback, Morbid, Transform, Undying
Set size 158
(64 commons, 44 uncommons, 38 rares, 12 mythic rares)
Expansion code DKA[1]
Development codename Rattle
Innistrad block
Innistrad Dark Ascension Avacyn Restored
Magic: The Gathering Chronology
Premium Deck Series: Graveborn Dark Ascension Duel Decks: Venser vs. Koth

Dark Ascension is the second set in the Innistrad block. It is the 57th Magic expansion and was released on February 3, 2012.[2]

Set details

Dark Ascension, like its predecessor, is top-down designed with a horror theme.[3] The set contains 158 cards (64 Common, 44 Uncommon, 38 Rare, 12 Mythic) and includes randomly inserted premium versions of all cards in the set. The set puts a stronger emphasis on tribal creature types, such as providing a lord for each of the main types (vampires, ghosts, werewolves, zombies and humans).[4][5] All the major mechanics of the previous set, including double-faced cards, return. New mechanics are Fateful Hour and Undying. The expansion symbol of the set is the Innistrad symbol "turned inward", which represents humanity hunkering down.[6]

Flavor and storyline

“  Command the Night  ”

Innistrad has been overrun by creatures of the night. While the forces of good struggle to hold back the threat, villagers cower behind walls and pray for the morning light. The humans are on the verge of extinction and have to take desperate measures to stem the tide.[7][8][9] It is revealed that Avacyn, the guardian angel created by Sorin is locked in the Helvault.[10][11][12][13]

Magic Story

Main article: Magic Story
Title Author Release Date Setting (plane) Featuring
Mikaeus, the Unhallowed Jenna Helland 2011-10-26 Innistrad Mikaeus Cecani, Geralf Cecani, Gisa Cecani, Grimgrin, Alwin, Traken, Avacyn, Lothar, Thalia, "Lili"

Savor the Flavor

Main article: Savor the Flavor
Title Author Release Date Setting (plane) Featuring
A Backstory Update for Dark Ascension Doug Beyer 2012-01-04 Innistrad Avacyn, Liliana, Griselbrand, Garruk
Sorin's Homecoming Doug Beyer 2012-01-11 Innistrad Sorin, Edgar Markov, Shilgengar, Avacyn
The Prison of Silver Doug Beyer 2012-01-18 Innistrad Edgar Markov, Shilgengar, Sorin, Avacyn, Griselbrand, Mikaeus Cecani, Liliana
The State of the Faith Doug Beyer 2012-01-25 Innistrad Avacyn, Griselbrand, Mikaeus Cecani, Volpaig

Marketing

Dark Ascension 6-card booster

Dark Ascension was sold in 16-card boosters, 6-card boosters, five intro packs, two event decks and a fat pack.[14] The 16-card boosters featured artwork from Havengul Lich, Sorin, Lord of Innistrad and Werewolf Ransacker.[15] The small booster featured artwork from Beguiler of Wills.

The prerelease was January 28–29, 2012, the launch party on February 3–6, 2012, the Magic Online release on February 20, 2012.[16] The Game Day was held on February 25–26, 2012.

At each prerelease, some number of people were designated by some flashy stickers as a vampire, werewolf, zombie, or spirit at the start of the event. Any time a monster defeated a human in a match, the monster would convert the human to their cause. At the end of each Prerelease, the remaining humans and the largest tribe or tribes of monsters would be declared winners, but the rewards were up to the organizers.[17] The prerelease cards was the double faced Ravenous Demon / Archdemon of Greed.[18] The Release card was Mondronen Shaman / Tovolar's Magehunter.[19] The promotional card at the Game Day event was a full-art Strangleroot Geist, while a full-art foil Zombie Apocalypse was given to the top-8 participants. The Buy-a-Box was Gravecrawler.

Regular boosters of Dark Ascension come with a bonus sixteenth card that is either a Dark Ascension checklist card, a creature token, an emblem, or a rules card with an advertisement on the reverse side.

Tokens and emblem

Dark Ascension checklist card

The new Dark Ascension tokens and emblem are:[20]

  1. {W} 1/1 Human produced by Gather the Townsfolk, Increasing Devotion, and Thraben Doomsayer
  2. {B} 1/1 Vampire with lifelink produced by Sorin, Lord of Innistrad
  3. Emblem for Sorin, Lord of Innistrad

Themes and mechanics

The set introduces a new keyword mechanic in Undying. It functions very similar to Persist, but instead of a -1/-1 counter, it adds a +1/+1 counter to the creature when it returns from the grave.[21][22]

Fateful hour is a new ability word, which creates an ability that functions if the controller of the effect is at 5 life or less.[23][24]

Double-faced cards return with this set, further showcasing the transformation mechanic. As for Innistrad a special Checklist card is provided to facilitate play with the double-face cards.[25][26] Flashback, Morbid, and Curses also return.

Creature types

No novel creature types were introduced in this expansion.

Cycles

Dark Ascension breaks the mold for cycles to a certain extent, as some of the cycles only contain four cards. In cycles that emphasize an allied color pair, the green-white part of the cycle is missing. This is likely due to the higher emphasis on monster tribes, as the white/green pair is tied to humans.

Three flashback cycles:

Cycle name {W} {U} {B} {R} {G}
Increasing flashback cards Increasing Devotion Increasing Confusion Increasing Ambition Increasing Vengeance Increasing Savagery
Five rare spells with Flashback, which double their effect if they are flashed back
Allied flashback cards Ray of Revelation Saving Grasp Reap the Seagraf Fires of Undeath Wild Hunger
Each of these common spells has a flashback cost involving its counter-clockwise ally on the color wheel. This cycle mirrors the ally cycle from Innistrad, which had flashback costs in the color's clockwise ally on the color wheel.
Enemy flashback cards Lingering Souls Mystic Retrieval Deadly Allure Burning Oil Tracker's Instincts
Each of these uncommon spells has a flashback cost involving the enemy color two slots later on the color wheel. They are the reverse of a cycle from Innistrad, as the colors of the flashback cost and the regular casting cost are flipped.

Two monster tribal cycles:

Cycle name {W}{U}
Spirit 		{U}{B}
Zombie 		{B}{R}
Vampire 		{R}{G}
Werewolf
Mythic Rare Drogskol Reaver Havengul Lich Falkenrath Aristocrat Huntmaster of the Fells // Ravager of the Fells
Four mythic rare creatures that are of an allied pair associated with one of four monster tribes associated with Innistrad.
Lords Drogskol Captain Diregraf Captain Stromkirk Captain Immerwolf
A cycle of uncommon cards that are allied-colored lords tied to one of the monster tribes on Innistrad. They all provide some form of benefit in addition to the standard lord effect. Immerwolf is the only one who is not named Captain.

Mega cycle

Main article: Innistrad block#Mega cycle

Vertical cycle

Cycle name
Red Riding Hood Werewolves Huntmaster of the Fells // Ravager of the Fells Lambholt Elder // Silverpelt Werewolf Scorned Villager // Moonscarred Werewolf
A cycle taking inspiration from the classic fairy tale "Little Red Riding Hood", but where all the characters are also the Big Bad Wolf - the little girl, the grandmother, and the hunter that saved them.

Reprinted cards

Functional reprints

Strictly better

Notable cards

  • Archangel's Light is a notoriously weak card, particularly for a mythic rare.
  • Gravecrawler and Geralf's Messenger formed the backbone of Zombie decks in Standard, as both are hard to kill and can push a lot of damage through in early turns. Geralf's Messenger, in particular, is a conceptual mirrored version of Kitchen Finks which was a popular aggro card during Lorwyn-Shadowmoor block; providing life loss against life gain, getting stronger upon death as opposed to weaker and being extremely inflexible in casting as opposed to being fairly easy to cast.
  • Grafdigger's Cage is a powerful hoser card against strategies that attempt to cheat cards into play. This card incited widespread skepticism and anger but turned out to not be as threatening as expected. It nevertheless became a staple in the eternal formats, especially out of the sideboard.
  • Huntmaster of the Fells provided two bodies in one card, as well as lifegain and potential damage output, resulting in seeing heavy play in Standard.
  • Elbrus, the Binding Blade is a very flavorful artifact, depicting an expensive but weak dagger, which transforms into the gigantic and nigh-unstoppable Demon Withengar who feasts on the souls of defeated opponents.
  • Tragic Slip was once one of the best spot creature removal cards in the game, due to its ability to destroy almost any creature for one mana, provided that another creature already died that turn.
  • Thalia, Guardian of Thraben is a staple in Death and Taxes in both Legacy and Modern and has seen play on both of its times through Standard.
  • Mikaeus, the Unhallowed is well known in casual Commander for having an infinite combo loop with numerous creatures, most commonly Triskelion.
  • Though Scour has seen substantial play in both Modern and Pauper decks that combine control style spells with aggressive finishers that benefit from a filled graveyard, as well as Modern decks focused on aggressively milling the opponent.
  • Young Wolf did not see much success in Standard but has proven powerful in both Pauper, where it is a key part of multiple aggro decks, and Bogles style decks, and in Modern, where it is one of the main combo pieces in decks built around Yawgmoth, Thran Physician.
  • Strangleroot Geist was a key part of standard aggro decks with an efficient and hasty body and resilience to removal, and continues to see play in decks similar to Young Wolf in Modern such as Yawgmoth and Chord Toolbox.

Banned and restricted cards

  • Faithless Looting showed the shift toward "looting" (a la Merfolk Looter) abilities in Red, although later sets shifted towards having the discard happen before drawing. Regardless, the card proved to be exceptionally powerful for any deck that cares about the graveyard, providing both great card selection and cheap access to repeatable discard. It even works great in multiples, which could also be discarded but still provide value through flashback. After many years of enabling graveyard strategies, it was banned in Modern in the wake of Hogaak, Arisen Necropolis decks plaguing the format for months.
  • Lingering Souls saw widespread application in nearly all formats and was banned in Block Constructed due to providing a large number of creatures with the cost spread over multiple turns. It remained a powerhouse in Modern for many years, although it has fallen out of favor as more powerful creatures have been printed.

Trivia

Preconstructed decks

Intro packs

Main article: Dark Ascension/Intro packs

Dark Ascension features five intro packs.[28]

Intro pack name Colors Included Foil rare
{W} {U} {B} {R} {G}
Relentless Dead U B Havengul Runebinder
Monstrous Surprise R G Flayer of the Hatebound
Dark Sacrifice W B Fiend of the Shadows
Swift Justice W R Requiem Angel
Grave Power U G Ghoultree

Event decks

Main article: Dark Ascension/Event decks

Dark Ascension features two event decks.[29]

Event
deck name 		Colors Included
{W} {U} {B} {R} {G}
Gleeful Flames R
Spiraling Doom B G

References

  1. ↑ Product info
  2. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (July 25, 2011). "Announcing Dark Ascension". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  3. ↑ Zac Hill (January 20, 2012). "Hooked on a Feeling". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  4. ↑ Mark Rosewater (January 09, 2012). "Dancing in the Dark Ascension, Part 1". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  5. ↑ Mark Rosewater (January 16, 2012). "Dancing in the Dark Ascension, Part 2". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  6. ↑ Ask Brady (dead link)
  7. ↑ Doug Beyer (January 02, 2012). "In These Desperate Times: A Backstory Update for Dark Ascension". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  8. ↑ Jenna Helland (January 16, 2012). "Preview Article: Mikaeus, the Unhallowed". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  9. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 04, 2012). "Dark Ascension Art Gallery". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  10. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (January, 2012). "The World of Dark Ascension". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  11. ↑ Doug Beyer (January 11, 2012). "Sorin's Homecoming". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  12. ↑ Doug Beyer (January 18, 2012). "The Prison of Silver". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  13. ↑ Doug Beyer (January 25, 2012). "The State of the Faith". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  14. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 16, 2012). "Dark Ascension Fat Pack". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  15. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 10, 2012). "Dark Ascension Booster Packs". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  16. ↑ Wizards of the Coast (February 7, 2012). "Magic Online Dark Ascension Release Events". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  17. ↑ Tim Willoughby (January 23, 2012). "Dark Ascension Prerelease Primer". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  18. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 9, 2012). "Dark Ascension Promo Cards". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  19. ↑ Monty Ashley (February 2, 2012). "Alternate Launch Party Art". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  20. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 18, 2012). "Dark Ascension Tokens". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  21. ↑ Magicthegathering.com Staff (January 09, 2012). "Dark Ascension Mechanics". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  22. ↑ Zac Hill (February 24, 2012). "(Un)Die Another Day". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  23. ↑ Dave Humpherys (January 30, 2012). "First Impressions". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  24. ↑ Zac Hill (March 09, 2012). "Fateful Desperation". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  25. ↑ Tom LaPille (January 13, 2012). "Transformation Transformed". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  26. ↑ Monty Ashley (February 16, 2012). "Same Place, Different Side". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  27. ↑ Sean Migalla (October 24, 2022). "10 Best Pop Culture References In Magic: The Gathering". CBR.com.
  28. ↑ Monty Ashley (January 12, 2012). "Dark Ascension Intro Packs". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.
  29. ↑ Monty Ashley (February 01, 2012). "Dark Ascension Event Decks". magicthegathering.com. Wizards of the Coast.

External links

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